Being a godparent is an honour and a huge responsibility
Mmakwena Ablonia Kunene is a first time Godparent and shares her views on the importance of being there for her godchild
POLOKWANE – Godmothers are just as important as biological parents, says Mmakwena Ablonia Kunene from Moletjie Ga-Semenya.
Mmakwena is a godparent to her niece Regaugetswe, who is now only a few months old. “It was such an honor when my sister, who was pregnant at the time, broke the news that she had chosen me to be godparent to her unborn child. It gives me joy, to walk with them throughout this journey, knowing that I will be playing an important role in her upbringing,” she explains.
She tells Review that being a godparent requires one to be hands-on and willing to step in the role of a parent, should the biological parent be unable to fulfill their duties for whatever reasons that may have occurred.
“This means being there for both the child and parents spiritually, physically, emotionally and sometimes financially regarding the child’s overall well being. This is my first time walking in the shoes of a godparent and I am enjoying every single moment,” she adds.
According to her there is no real difference between a biological parent and a godparent. She explains that except for legal aspects, godparents and biological parents share similar values, morals and beliefs which they will both instill in the child to ensure and guide the child to grow up in a decent and well mannered way.
“A godparent must be someone that a biological parent trusts. A legible godparent must form part of a child’s development growth to assist in child’s development and be a care giver,” she concluded.
